Sweet Macaroni Salad Recipe

Sweet Macaroni Salad is a classic dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. This creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy salad is loaded with fresh vegetables and tender pasta, making it a hit for all ages. It’s quick to prepare and even better when made ahead, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dressing:

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

See also  Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe

Mix the Vegetables:

Add the diced carrots, red bell pepper, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Stir in the sweet pickle relish for a hint of tangy sweetness.

Combine Pasta and Dressing:

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Season and Chill:

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve chilled. Enjoy this Sweet Macaroni Salad as a side dish or a light main course!

Tips for Perfect Sweet Macaroni Salad:

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the pasta slightly firm to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.

See also  Baked Cheesy Potato Casserole

Adjust Sweetness: You can tweak the sugar and condensed milk to suit your preferred sweetness level.

Add Protein: For a more filling salad, mix in diced ham, shredded chicken, or boiled eggs.

Make Ahead: This salad tastes better when made a few hours ahead of time, as the flavors develop and intensify in the fridge.

Conclusion:
Sweet Macaroni Salad is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors, combined with tender pasta and crunchy vegetables. It’s a simple yet versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to be a crowd favorite.

Final Tip: Make this salad ahead of time to let the flavors meld beautifully, and remember to give it a good stir before serving. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any gathering or celebration!

Leave a Comment